5 Useful Methods for Disinfecting Your Toothbrush

Whether you just got over a cold, the flu, or even COVID-19, you’re probably thinking about how to disinfect your household so you don’t put any of your family members at risk of getting sick. Before you toss that toothbrush away, it’s worth considering that you can get rid of germs with a few do-it-yourself tricks recommended by a dentist in Love Field! All of them can be performed in the comfort of your home and many of them only use basic household materials!

Method 1: Antibacterial Mouthwash

If you are already using antibacterial mouthwash to clean your teeth and gums, why not use it for your toothbrush as well? Simply take your toothbrush and swirl it around in a cup of your mouthwash for about 30 seconds. Not only is this safer than throwing your toothbrush in a microwave or the dishwasher (which can actually damage your toothbrush), but you’ll be able to enjoy a nice minty aftertaste the next time you brush! Just make sure not to reuse the mouth wash or soak the toothbrush for longer than 15 minutes.

Method 2: Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the most common cleaners you can find, both in your house and at grocery stores. Simply take two teaspoons of baking soda and combine it with one cup of water. After stirring the mixture, soak your toothbrush in the solution.

Method 3: Hydrogen Peroxide

To disinfect your toothbrush using hydrogen peroxide, combine one teaspoon of 3 percent-strength peroxide with one cup of water. Then, swish the toothbrush bristles in the solution before brushing. It’s a quick and easy way to disinfect your toothbrush with minimal supplies you likely have lying around your house!

Method 4: Vinegar

If you want to keep your toothbrush consistently disinfected with relatively little effort, you can always soak the toothbrush in vinegar once a week. Just make sure to thoroughly rinse the brush before you use it to avoid tasting too much of the vinegar while you brush.

Method 5: Denture Cleansers

Have a family member who relies on a denture? Do you use denture cleansers already to keep your nightguard clean regularly? To clean your toothbrush, start by reading the instructions on the packaging for the denture cleanser and soak the toothbrush bristles in the solution.

When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?

While there are many ways to disinfect a toothbrush, you may want to play it completely safe and replace your toothbrush entirely. Additionally, there are some electric toothbrushes on the market that actually disinfect themselves if you’re looking for a more long-term solution to regularly disinfecting your toothbrush. Keep in mind that toothbrushes never last forever and should be replaced every three to four months or once the brushes becomes significantly frayed.

About Bear Creek Family Dentistry

Our dentists at Bear Creek Family Dentistry want to help patients in any way that they can to improve and enhance their at-home oral care routine. While this includes teaching families the best steps for brushing and flossing, it also means providing recommendations on at-home maintenance and products they believe will make their lives easier. To schedule an appointment or ask questions about at-home care, you can contact them through their website.